Feature
Russell Roof Tiles uses AI to cut manufacturing process by more than 50 %
Russell Roof Tiles is using artificial intelligence( AI) across its manufacturing and operational processes, with the technology cutting the time taken for some tasks by more than 50 %.
THE UK roof tile manufacturer has invested hundreds of hours over the past 12 months developing AI tools to address operational challenges across its manufacturing and support teams.
The technology is being used at Russell Roof Tiles’ two sites in Burton upon Trent, where the company manufactures concrete roof tiles and uPVC accessories.
A new digital quality monitoring system has replaced paper-based quality checks, allowing data to be recorded electronically and directly from the factory floor.
Production teams and machine operators can now access realtime information on manufacturing performance across both sites.
AI introduced to roofing manufacturing processes
The digital quality monitoring system allows machine operators to monitor production performance during shifts and make adjustments when required.
Russell Roof Tiles said the approach is helping to improve accuracy, reduce waste and avoid machinery downtime by giving operators access to manufacturing information as production takes place.
The company has also introduced AI tools to provide staff with easier access to information held within its enterprise resource planning( ERP) system.
Previously, employees had to manually search through the system to find relevant information. The new tools allow staff to retrieve data more quickly and identify priority orders and areas requiring attention.
Chris Bailey, group IT director at Russell Roof Tiles, said:“ We identified key challenges that our teams regularly face and discussed how AI technology could boost efficiency.
“ We have developed our own bespoke internal tools that are providing our teams with real-time
48 Issue 26 | 2026